Who is considered a "defendant"?

A "defendant" is defined as an individual who is accused of a crime and is standing trial in court. This legal terminology is central to both criminal and civil law proceedings. In a criminal case, the defendant is the person against whom the charges are brought by the prosecution, which is representing the state or government. This role is critical in the justice system, as the defendant has certain rights under the law, including the right to a fair trial, the right to counsel, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

In contrast, the other options refer to different roles within the legal process. Someone seeking to sue another is known as the plaintiff, while a lawyer representing the prosecution is part of the legal team presenting the case against the defendant. A witness, on the other hand, provides testimony related to the case but is not directly involved as a party accused of a crime. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the roles individuals play within the judicial system.